Maybe traveling alone was never your first choice, but sometimes you just have no other option. Taking solo business trips can actually be a great opportunity for you to handle yourself in a different context with new people. This list of tips will help you make the most of your solo business trips.

Talk to Strangers and Watch the World Around You

Traveling alone is the best time to be outgoing and strike up conversations with strangers. When you’re not in a meeting and can take a couple of hours for yourself, try to talk to anyone and everyone who looks friendly. Meet the locals, connect with them and, if you have time, see if you can take a free local tour to observe how people interact and how things work there.

Don’t Be Put Off by Dining Alone: Go Out and Enjoy Yourself

No business meetings at night? Go to restaurants with communal tables and ask a local to order for you, not just to start a conversation but to learn about the typical cuisine there. As the day comes to an end, the to-do list is all checked off and the next day’s schedule is ready, treat yourself to something nice: go out, find a pub, sit at a bar or even get tickets to a show.

Pack Light and Be Prepared

Making your luggage manageable is absolutely essential when flying solo. Initially, you might be inclined to take everything with you, but time will make you a better packer, don’t worry. Keep in mind that there’s almost nothing that you can’t buy abroad: so don’t overpack. Travel casual, drama free. Of course, important documents and papers, business cards and your smartphone for work are things you simply can’t leave behind. Plus, if you’ve ever had bad experiences with mishandled luggage in the past, another essential to consider is LugLoc, a small device that lets you know where in the world your luggage is. With just a tap on your smartphone (and the miracle of Bluetooth) alerts you when your luggate is coming out on the baggage carousel.